3 Arrested in Costa Mesa Warehouse Burglary

Suspects fled police in two separate vehicle pursuits, one ending in Lakewood

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Three suspects were arrested on Sunday following an alleged burglary at a warehouse in Costa Mesa, California. Police responded to a burglary-in-progress call and observed two vehicles fleeing the scene. One vehicle went the wrong way on the 55 Freeway, prompting police to terminate that pursuit. The second vehicle fled to northbound Interstate 5, leading to a chase involving the Orange County Sheriff's Department, California Highway Patrol, and a sheriff's K-9 unit. The chase ended in Lakewood, where two suspects were taken into custody. A third suspect was arrested at the scene of the alleged burglary.

Why it matters

Burglaries and property crimes remain an ongoing issue in many California communities, with suspects sometimes fleeing police in dangerous high-speed chases. This incident highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in responding to and apprehending suspects involved in these types of crimes.

The details

According to the Costa Mesa Police Department, officers responded to a burglary-in-progress call at a warehouse on Paularino Avenue around 6:25 a.m. on Sunday. Police observed two vehicles fleeing the scene, with one vehicle going the wrong way on the 55 Freeway, prompting police to terminate that pursuit. The second vehicle fled northbound on Interstate 5, leading to a chase involving multiple law enforcement agencies. The chase ended in Lakewood, where two suspects were taken into custody. A third suspect was arrested at the scene of the alleged burglary in Costa Mesa.

  • Officers responded to the burglary call at 6:25 a.m. on Sunday, March 2, 2026.

The players

Costa Mesa Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the burglary call and initiated the vehicle pursuits.

Orange County Sheriff's Department

Assisted in the vehicle pursuit that ended in Lakewood.

California Highway Patrol

Assisted in the vehicle pursuit that ended in Lakewood.

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The takeaway

This incident underscores the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in responding to property crimes and the risks involved when suspects flee police. It serves as a reminder of the importance of community partnerships and comprehensive strategies to address burglaries and other criminal activity.